Viewing service vs funeral. funeral: What’s the difference? When someone you know passes away, you may want to attend one or more formal gatherings in order to pay your last respects. Funerals. Jun 25, 2023 · A viewing is an event that allows friends and family to gather in a private setting to pay their final respects to a deceased person prior to a funeral or memorial service. Cremation • Often more affordable • Flexible timing for memorial services • Options for keepsakes, scattering, or burial Traditional Funeral • Formal service with viewing • Burial at a cemetery • Structured time for family and friends to gather There is no “right” or “wrong” choice — only what is right for your family. If they are scheduled separately, people may attend the visitation instead of the funeral, or vice versa. You may also hear it referred to as a viewing or a wake, although the definitions of each are slightly different. A viewing (also called a wake) may be brief and take place immediately before the funeral service, or may last for up to three days before the service. A viewing usually isn't a religious service, so there is unlikely to be a formal prayer said or any type of structured order of events. Aug 13, 2025 · Wondering whether to attend a visitation or a funeral—and what actually happens at each? Get the lowdown on etiquette, timing, and how to show respect. Many options are available, and understanding the difference can help you make the best decision for your circumstances. Rather, this is a time for you and others who knew the deceased and his or her family to come and say a last goodbye. viewing vs. Visitations generally occur before a funeral, mostly commonly either on the previous or same day as the funeral. is dedicated to providing services to the families of Southside Virginia with care and compassion. Final Thoughts Attending a funeral, visitation, or wake is a way to honour a life well-lived and provide comfort to those left behind. By understanding funeral visitation vs viewing, dressing appropriately, and conducting yourself with kindness and respect, you can navigate these events with confidence and compassion. We serve every family in our community with great pride. Learn about 2025 funeral costs, cultural meanings, and how to choose the right service. When Does a Viewing or Visitation Occur? As you plan the funeral service with your chosen funeral director, you can discuss the options. In some cases, a visitation may be scheduled immediately before the funeral as part of the funeral service. A viewing is generally held the night before, or immediately prior to the funeral service. Wake Funerals, viewings, and wakes are all related opportunities for visitors to show support and express condolences to the bereaved family. Viewings usually take place at the funeral home but they sometimes occur in the family’s home. In addition to a formal funeral service, there’s often another ceremony called a ‘wake’ or a ‘viewing. The final decision will be up to the surviving family members. Unlike a funeral, guests are not expected to stay for the entire viewing. This can be done at a funeral home, crematory, church, community hall, or private residence. Funeral vs. The two most common choices are: Have the visitation/viewing the evening before the funeral service. Feb 13, 2026 · Wake vs. Learn more The number of terms you’ll hear for ceremonies to honour a person who has passed away can be a bit overwhelming. It is usually held in a funeral home or place of worship. Jan 31, 2026 · This guide will explain the differences between a wake, funeral, and viewing. As a family-owned and operated funeral home, we've established a solid reputation, and we'll continue to serve our community by upholding the ideals espoused by our funeral directors. Frequently the viewing is done prior to a traditional funeral service and guests are invited to come to the service early in order to view the deceased. Where are visitations held? Visitations most commonly occur at a funeral home, place of worship or in a private home. What is a Wake? Jun 21, 2025 · Navigate the differences between a wake, viewing, and visitation. Visitations and viewings are sometimes used synonymously. Visitations While a wake, a viewing and a funeral have similarities, the three events have some significant differences. A viewing allows attendees to view the body of the departed and pay respects, remember their life, and express sympathies to the family. ’ Almost everyone who loses a close friend, colleague, or family member will feel like they should attend Dec 16, 2025 · Wake, viewing, visitation, or funeral? Learn what each means, what to expect, and how to plan a service that fits your family and budget. When one loses a loved one, it can be not easy to decide on the best way to honor their life. What’s the difference between a wake and a viewing? How do they differ from a funeral? A viewing might also involve the cremated remains of the deceased in an urn. Viewing vs. Brown's Funeral Service Inc. Powers Funeral Home For over 10 years, Powers Funeral Home has been providing funeral and cremation services that is focused on quality and excellence. A visitation can take place any time, before or after the funeral service or disposition, and can last for hours or days. rzig, m02br, pmnwd, euqk, dlvia, fjsqh, yiiai, a1srv, q6sffo, vy2as,